The first division Zlín expressed keen interest in Bohemians midfielder Michal Dian. Dian is well regarded by fans who like his technical capabilities. However, his fondness for the ball sometimes results in delays or, even worse, in a loss of ball possession. His defensive liabilities are well known, but he more than made up for it with his scoring touch. However, when his goal production tailed off, he lost his midfield starting position. Consequently, Bohemians management decided that Michal Dian should be given the opportunity to try his luck in the first division. Dian will play in Zlín on a loan. Zlín has an option to acquire Dian permanently.
Ivan Hašek jr., arguably the most talented player that Bohemians have on their roster, is still down with a knee injury. The 19-year old has not seen any action since the game against Bystrc on August 13, 2006. He had undergone the knee surgery, but resulting complications could not be resolved even by French doctors during Ivan’s visit with his father who coaches French first division team of St. Etienne. Doctors prescribed another two-month rest, so all Ivan can do is work out in the gym and cheer for his team-mates. Let’s hope that the injury won’t jeopardize Ivan’s participation at Under-20 World Cup in Canada.
Bohemians received, and accepted, an invitation for an international friendly. The invitation arrived from FC Sachsen Leipzig, Germany. The game will be played at the stadium used for World Cup games (Leipziger Zentralstadion) on Wednesday, February 7, 2007, and starts at 6 pm. By the way, FC Sachsen Leipzig is another club that sports green-and-white jerseys.
Bohemians received another invitation for an international preparation game, this time from Austria. Players of Bohemians will have an opportunity to match their skills against the leading team of the Austrian first division, Red Bull Salzburg. Salzburg is sometimes called “Austrian Chelsea”, referring to its status as the richest team in central Europe. Coach Busta will be able to observe first hand coaching skills of legendary Lothar Matthäus and Giovanni Trapattoni behind the Salzburg bench. The game is scheduled for February 18, 2007; it starts at 2:30 pm.
These invitations may be a sign that Bohemians are regaining their good reputation in football Europe.
